SMITH COUNTY, Texas — EDITOR'S NOTE: The video above aired on Dec. 21, 2023.
Local enforcement released a report of DWIs issued during the holiday season in Smith County.
According to the report, officers arrested 24 people for driving while intoxicated between December 22 to December 28.
To help reduce the number of people drinking and driving this season, the Texas Department of Transportation has launched its "Driver Sober. No Regrets" campaign. From December 16 to January 2, law enforcement across Texas will be heightened to prevent drunk drivers from traveling on the roads.
Last year around the holiday season, TxDOT says there were 108 people killed and more than 200 badly injured in alcohol-related crashes across the state.
Police departments across Smith County, like the Tyler Police Department, have increased patrols to keep everyone safe.
"(The campaign) also increases public safety and keeps Tyler residents and visitors safer while attending New Year’s events and festivities," said Jimmy Toler, Tyler Police Department Chief.
TxDOT said a DWI can cost up to $17,000 in fines and fees and lead to jail time, loss of a driver’s license, difficulty finding or keeping a job, loss of trust from loved ones, and a lifetime of regret.